Early Access

10-KPeriod: FY2007

SOUTHERN CO Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2007

Filed February 25, 2008For Securities:SOSOJESOJFSOJCSOJDSOMN

Summary

Southern Company's 2007 10-K filing details a robust year with significant investments in its construction program, particularly in new generation facilities. The company emphasizes its commitment to meeting the growing energy demands of its service territories, which span across Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. Financial performance is driven by a regulated utility model, with rate adjustments and fuel cost recovery mechanisms playing key roles in profitability. The report highlights the company's ongoing efforts to manage costs, secure fuel supplies, and navigate a complex regulatory environment. Investors should note Southern Company's substantial capital expenditure plans, which are crucial for future growth and operational reliability. The company's financial health is closely tied to its ability to secure timely regulatory approvals for rate increases and to manage the costs associated with its extensive generation and transmission infrastructure. The filing also underscores the inherent risks associated with the utility sector, including regulatory changes, environmental compliance, and competition, which are crucial considerations for evaluating the company's long-term prospects.

Financial Statements
Beta
Revenue$15.35B
Operating Expenses$12.03B
Operating Income$3.33B
Net Income$1.78B
EPS (Basic)$2.29
EPS (Diluted)$2.28
Shares Outstanding (Basic)756.00M
Shares Outstanding (Diluted)761.00M

Key Highlights

  • 1Southern Company's primary business is the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity across Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi through its traditional operating companies (Alabama Power, Georgia Power, Mississippi Power) and wholesale operations via Southern Power.
  • 2The company is actively engaged in significant construction programs, investing heavily in new generation facilities to meet projected energy demand and maintain system reliability.
  • 3Financing programs are a critical component, with the company utilizing various debt and equity instruments to fund its capital expenditures and ongoing operations.
  • 4Fuel supply management, including natural gas and coal, is a key operational focus, with strategies in place to ensure reliable and cost-effective sourcing.
  • 5The utility operates within a heavily regulated environment, subject to rate-setting by state public utility commissions, which significantly impacts its revenue and profitability.
  • 6Southern Company faces competition from other energy providers, particularly in its wholesale operations, and is subject to market dynamics affecting energy prices.
  • 7The filing addresses potential risk factors, including regulatory uncertainties, environmental regulations, operational risks, and economic conditions affecting energy demand.

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